Comments for DOG BITES OWNER, WILL NOT STOP

It is difficult to determine the reason for the biting without more information. Would it be possible to supply the age and breed of the dog. Is this a new behavior or has the dog always had a biting problem. Is it possible there have been some recent changes in the household or a move or the pet is fearful of something. Is the dog biting anyone other than the owner? Is the owner's pet dog from a shelter? Shelter dogs can sometimes have problems that may need professional help. Is this play biting oraggressive biting?

I can give you some general information:

Biting is a normal canine behavior but it is very important to stop a puppy from biting as soon as possible so they do not grow up thinking that biting is an acceptable behavior for the rest of his/her life. Under 6 months it is very correctable. It usually starts out as playing but if the puppy bites your hand say "no" because the pup needs to learn to be gentle with his/her mouth.

If a dog is a year old, it is still correctable by taking an obedience class to modify the behavior. By this time the canine thinks that he/she is in charge.

If your friend has an adult dog she may need some professional help from a good trainer or animal behaviorist. The dog now knows he/she is in charge and owns the house.

Training a dog with hitting and spanking is not a constructive way to deal with the problem.

Reasons for biting:

Some dogs are born with a greater tendency towards aggression.

The dog has been allowed to think that biting is appropriate.

Some dogs will Bite when worried or afraid.

An abused dog will sometimes bite.

If a dog is ill or injured, ask your friend to take her dog to a vet to make sure that this is not happening because of pain or discomfort.

Some dogs will growl or bite if a tasty bone, toy or food is taken away and use caution when waking a dog.

Preventing Biting:

Spay or neuter the dog.

Teach the dog to drop and object when playing tug of war; the owner should always be in charge of the game.

Do not allow the dog to nip or bit when playing.

Dogs should be trained to follow basic commands and respond when his/her name is called.

Be cautious when introducing a dog to new situations.

A dog should not be allowed to be food or toy possessive.

If your friend?s dog is behaving aggressively towards her, she should seek professional help. This could be a potentially dangerous situation for her and particularly if she is elderly.

I hope this has been helpful. I could possibly be of more help if I knew the specific circumstances. If you wish to contact me again, I would be happy to try and help further.